Block dance set for July 6 in downtown Massena

MASSENA - The cars will be filling downtown Massena on July 6 and the Greater Massena Chamber of Commerce is looking for some parking attendants.

The chamber will be holding its 16th annual block dance and classic car, truck and motorcycle exhibit from 5 to 9 p.m. Main Street from Orvis to Andrews street will be closed beginning at 4 p.m.

Were looking for people to volunteer to help us cover the parking downtown, chamber Executive Director Michael J. Gleason said.

Vehicles - cars, trucks and motorcycles - have lined both sides of the street in years past, arriving one by one as the evening progresses.

They just show up that day, Mr. Gleason said.

All makes and models are welcome and there is no entry, chamber Board President Susan E. Stiles said.

The first 100 vehicles to register will receive a goody bag and dash plaque. Trophies will also be awarded to the Best GM, Best Mopar, Best Ford, Best Other Make, Best Motorcycle and Best In Show.

The evening includes live music by Bruce LaShomb and the Boys.

Dairy Queen is sponsoring the band. His crew will be set up right in front of the old theater entrance, he said.

Food will also be available that night. The chamber will have a small snack stand with items like chips and water, while members of the Massena Volunteer Fire Department will hold their chicken barbecue fundraiser at the fire station.

Dairy Queen is going to sell ice cream, Mr. Gleason said.

Children will be able to enjoy a bounce house, which he said will be in front of Key Bank instead of near the town hall, where a parking lot replacement project is underway.

Were trying to move things around so everybody gets in, he said.

A variety of vendors will be on hand, and there will be a 50-50 raffle and lots of great vehicles to check out, Mr. Gleason said.

In addition, he said, the Massena Downtown Coalition may have a presence in the Cross Current building to discuss their proposed downtown revitalization plans.